Making Gold Medal Memories
Dirt flies when the gate swings open and wind whips the flag until it is a freight train in my ears. A rumble builds with the excitement of 10,000 rodeo fans all cheering inside the Utah Days of ‘47 Arena. As Utah Cowgirl Collective Ambassadors, we serve as official flag bearers and representatives for the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo and this was our gold medal moment.
The Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo is the only gold medal rodeo in the world, making it a bucket list stop for the top cowboys and cowgirls in the world. While the rodeo athletes battled it out for their place on the podium, the UCC cowgirls were on their own mission making gold medal memories.
The crowd, the cowboys and the history of the great state of Utah makes the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo one to remember. Let us take you on a ride through the rodeo activities and a few highlights from the perspectives of UCC Ambassadors.
The Gates are Open: Helping with Rodeo Slack
Before rodeo fans fill the stands, rodeo athletes began their journey to the podium at the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo slack. As a progressive rodeo, competitors must qualify to compete in the performance and eventual gold-medal rounds. When the dust had settled, 32 competitors earned their spot in one of four performances and the top two from each night competed for the gold medal.
The UCC Ambassadors rubbed shoulders with some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the world while assisting with slack competitions. Check out Jaid Stowell’s gold medal memories from helping with rodeo slack.
The long-awaited week of the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo for the Utah Cowgirl Collective started with the slack. Our job was to assist the judge, strip ropes and track the steers and calves out of the arena, as well as fill in where needed in and out of the office and arena.
Slack consisted of the timed events, with all the events having two sections except barrels. Each of the girls took turns in the arena offering a helping hand. When the girls were not in the arena, we could be found getting flags ready for the rodeo or restocking the fridge and snacks for the hard-working committee, cowboys and cowgirls.
Slack is usually known as boring and long, but not this slack. Since the Utah Days of '47 is the Gold Standard in rodeo, it draws the finest rodeo athletes and horses from all over the country, making slack feel like an extension of the NFR. This slack was very competitive and exciting, to say the least. The top 32 athletes in each event were brought back to the performance.
Longhorns and Skyscrapers
A new set of horns could be seen instead of heard on the streets of downtown Salt Lake City. As part of the pioneer celebrations, UCC Ambassadors, the Governor and First Lady and rodeo committee members took to the streets with a herd of longhorn steers.
Delighted shouts and broad smiles showed on the face of spectators as the longhorns, horses and cowgirls roamed the streets. UCC Ambassadors Bailey Holmes and Madison McQuivey believe this city-meets-country crossover was a highlight of their gold medal week.
It was such a unique experience to be a part of the Utah Days of ‘47 Cattle Drive that took place on the typically hectic and traffic ridden streets of downtown Salt Lake City. The hustle and bustle of the city stilled for the moments that we followed those massive and beautiful Texas longhorns between the tall buildings.
I was completely out of my element riding a horse through stop lights, but I loved every minute of it. It is not every day that cowboys, cowgirls and longhorn cattle can be spotted parading through the city streets. Hearing the excitement from those waving from their cars in the stopped traffic to those cheering us on from the sidewalk or out the windows of their buildings, will always be one of my most fond memories. It was truly a once in a lifetime experience.
The cattle drive was quite the ride! We started early in the morning prepping our horses and getting them to the starting point of the drive. While waiting in the parking lot, a couple people from a nearby radio station came to say hello, and may have even taken a ride on a few of our horses.
The sun was shining, people lined the streets and the energy was so good. Pride for the western lifestyle filled our hearts as we moved the cattle through the streets of downtown Salt Lake City, sharing our heritage with all those around. A sense of community and love lined the streets, along with awe for the beautiful longhorns.
We are so grateful for the chance to participate in such a cool tradition and cannot wait to see it carried on with the next class of cowgirls.
Fast, Furious and Flags
UCC Ambassadors kicked the rodeo off each night as we charged into the arena flying the Utah state flag, leading the famous parade of champions and carrying Old Glory in the grand entry.
Zipping around the arena is without a doubt a gold medal memory for each cowgirl and UCC Ambassadors Falynn Mackey-Slack and Bailey Holmes paint a profound picture highlighting their own experiences carrying flags during the rodeo performances.
Packing sponsor flags on horseback during the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo is an experience that intertwines precision, tradition and the spirit of this event. Riding into the arena, with the crowd’s anticipation palpable, there's a unique thrill in carrying the banners of companies that support rodeo. Each flag represents a vital part of the event’s success and the rider’s role is to showcase these sponsors with pride and respect. Maneuvering the horse through the arena, maintaining perfect posture and balance while ensuring the flag flows smoothly, demands skill and a deep connection with the horse. The whole experience is a blend of excitement, responsibility and the deep-rooted traditions of rodeo.
The moment of packing "Old Glory," the American flag, is unmatched in its emotional weight. As the rider carries the flag into the arena, there's an overwhelming sense of pride and honor. The flag represents not just the country, but the ideals of freedom, bravery and unity that are integral to the rodeo community. The crowd stands in respect, hats over their hearts, as the rider makes the lap. The bond between horse and rider becomes even more profound, as both seem to understand the significance of the moment. It's a moving experience, where the rider feels the collective respect and patriotism of the audience, making it one of the most memorable parts of the rodeo.
Rodeo as a sport has always had a strong belief in patriotism, deeply woven into its culture. This is evident in the way events are conducted, with the American flag and the national anthem being central to the opening ceremonies. For participants, whether they are competing or carrying flags, there is a shared understanding of the importance of honoring the country and the values it stands for. This deep respect for tradition and country is what makes the experience of packing flags, especially the American flag, so profound. It’s more than just a task; it’s a symbol of the rodeo’s enduring spirit and the collective pride of everyone involved.
It was an exhilarating experience to carry a sponsor flag on horseback for the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo. The second I came flying through the gate and into the arena on my horse, I could feel the vibrant energy of the roaring crowd.
The excitement from the audience was contagious, as my horse, Ginger and I felt it each time we ran a lap around the arena with a sponsor flag. I was honored to be carrying the Utah State flag as a part of the Parade of Champions that took place at the beginning of each performance where the significant and historical individuals that played a factor in the foundation of the state of Utah were highlighted.
One of the things that I loved the most was hearing and seeing all the little kids waving and screaming with excitement from the fence as the other girls in Utah Cowgirl Collective Ambassadors and I rounded the corners of the arena. Witnessing that animation and excitement from the crowd brought a level of energy that encouraged us all. My participation with the Days of ‘47 Rodeo will forever be one of my most cherished memories.
Golden Performance: Medal Presentations
At the conclusion of the rodeo, nine cowboys and cowgirls left the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo arena with a gold medal around their neck. In true Olympic fashion, each rodeo champion took their place on the podium on the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo stage to be recognized.
UCC Ambassador Paige Clem was shoulder to shoulder with the top cowboys and cowgirls in the sport while assisting with the medal distribution. Her gold medal memories from this year’s rodeo consisted of just that: gold medals.
Giving away medals at the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo was an amazing experience. As I stood on the stage, the energy around me was electric. The crowd's excitement, the sound of the announcer and the level of competition created an atmosphere that felt alive. This rodeo is all about celebrating the hard work and determination of the competitors as well as celebrating Utah’s heritage. I could feel the pride in the air as I got ready to hand out those medals. Each one represented not just a win but the countless hours these riders put into their sport.
Watching the winners was the best part. Their faces lit up with joy and you could see how much it meant to them. It’s not just about competition, it’s a moment of pure happiness and celebration. What surprised me was the bonds between the competitors. Even though they were all vying for the top spot, there was so much support and respect among them. I remember standing on the stage to give away medals for barrel racing. The top three ladies had just walked onto the stage and took their spot on the podium when the number three lady congratulated each of the girls ahead of her with such enthusiasm and joy. This just showed me exactly how much support and grace each of the competing athletes have for each other.
Overall, being part of the Utah Days of '47 Rodeo felt like being a part of a big family that celebrates every win and milestone along the way. I walked away with a heart full of joy and a deeper appreciation for the rodeo culture. It wasn't just about giving away medals; it was about connecting with a community that cherishes these traditions and values. Being part of that day was truly special, and I’m grateful for the memories and new friends I made.
Spreading the Word: Media Appearances & Fun with Rodeo Fans
I can agree with each UCC Ambassador. Helping with slack, carrying flags, participating in the longhorn cattle drive and cheering on the top rodeo competitors were all highlights of my week, but my brightest gold-medal memories took shape outside of the arena at local news stations and on the rodeo concourse.
It’s not every day that a cowgirl finds herself under the lights of the live local news station, but when you’re excited about the rodeo you dust off your pants and spread the word. Throughout the week myself and the other UCC Ambassadors met with local news stations and helped with the rodeo’s social media. Our goal was inviting everyone to experience the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo and make their own gold medal memories.
Throughout the rodeo, we also had a chance to meet and engage with rodeo fans at the social media lounge featuring the Boot Barn post-up photo booth and at the Ribs & Rodeo dinner. We met local rodeo fans who love seeing the best cowboys and cowgirls in the world coming to their state and we laughed and took pictures with new spectators excited for their first rodeo.
Interacting with the crowd and sharing my love for rodeo puts a smile on my face and reminds me why I set out to become a Utah Cowgirl Collective Ambassador. I was blessed to grow up on the back of a horse and sharing such an integral piece of my life with others brings me gratitude for this lifestyle.
Tipping our Hats to the Rodeo Committee and Volunteers
Before any bulls, broncs or fast horses make it to the arena, there are countless hours of planning and set-up. Behind each gold medal moment at the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo is the dedicated committee, staff and volunteers who make it possible.
Seeing this rodeo from the lens of a spectator and now as a UCC Ambassador gives me a profound appreciation for the dedication of the rodeo crew. From the rodeo secretaries to the volunteers stocking drink coolers, putting on a production of this magnitude takes an army making it the gold standard of rodeo.
Of course, no rodeo is possible without the sponsors. It was an honor to fly the flags of Zions Bank, Intermountain Health Care, and the many amazing companies that contribute to our sport. We are especially grateful for our Utah Cowgirl Collective sponsors: Justin Boots, Wrangler and Western Horseman, for helping us look our best all week and for supporting us as cowgirls. Thank you to all who make our gold medal memories possible!
Up Next: The UCC Adventure Continues
The dust has settled and the top cowboys and cowgirls wear their medals with pride, but the close of the Utah Days of ‘47 Rodeo is not the end of our journey. With the rodeo in the rearview, there is still much to look forward to as Utah Cowgirl Collective Ambassadors. In the coming months we will be in our communities providing service and finding opportunities to share our love for rodeo and the western lifestyle.